Angel's Envy 10 Cask Strength Bourbon

 

For the first time ever, Angel's Envy has released their first-ever age-stated bottle!  This is the Angel's Envy 10 Cask Strength bourbon.  Touted as the crown jewel of their Cask Strength Archives, every detail of this release confirms that it was not made to meet a deadline - it was made the exceed expectations!

Bottled at 122.6 proof (61.3% ABV).  This bottle features a weighted glass and a 10/10-engraved cork closure crowned with a dark metal medallion.  This is extremely limited at select retailers nationwide.  Only 200 bottles will be available online through the Angel's Envy website.

Angel's Envy 10 Cask Strength opens with warm cinnamon, creamy nougat, and candied nuts.  On the palate, ripe fruit and crème brûlée unfold, while the port wine finish influence reveals rum raisin cake and leaves a graceful invitation for another sip.

Ok...  All of that above is from the distillery's press release.  We received a bottle of this to taste/review/share and here's the REAL DEAL...

First of all, we have to address the packaging.  Absolutely stunning and 10 out of 10!  We love when distilleries and agencies get super creative and this "vault" exterior packaging with interior LED lights is an absolute home run!

We let this one breathe some air in the Glencairn for about 15 minutes before we approached it - neat, of course.  Cinnamon stick, cashew, honey, baking spices and salt water taffy all competing for best in show in lifted aromas.  It's just mouth-watering!  Caramel-tawny colored with welcoming flavors of ripe red fruits, cherry cordial, cream cheese frosting, vanilla, and brown sugar.  The port wine finish is the "pièce de résistance" in our opinion, leaving a sweet, vanilla and raisin-like goodness that covers the mouth begs for more.  

This is, without a doubt, the best Angel's Envy expression we have ever tasted.  For those who tend to shy away from cask strength bottles (yes, apparently that's a real choice), you will find this to be extremely approachable and the sweetness offsets some of the heat you tend to get from 120+ proof whiskey.  If you get a chance to taste this, do not pass up the opportunity!

ABV:  61.3% (122.6 proof)

Distillery:  Angel's Envy

Suggested retail price:  $249.99

Drink The Bottles score:  97/100
 

2025 Buffalo Trace Antique Collection Release

 

THE BUFFALO TRACE ANTIQUE COLLECTION CELEBRATES ITS 25^TH ANNIVERSARY WITH THE DEBUT OF E.H. TAYLOR BOTTLED-IN-BOND, A TRIBUTE TO THE BOURBON PIONEER’S ENDURING LEGACY

 

Colonel E.H. Taylor’s legacy of craftsmanship and innovation finds a permanent home within Buffalo Trace’s most coveted collection

FRANKFORT, Ky (OCT 8, 2025) – This fall, Buffalo Trace Distillery proudly celebrates the 25^th release of the Buffalo Trace Antique Collection (BTAC) with its first new addition in nearly two decades: Colonel E.H. Taylor Bottled-in-Bond Bourbon. First introduced in 2000, the Antique Collection honors Buffalo Trace Distillery’s historic whiskey brands and the visionaries behind them, offering enthusiasts some of the world’s most sought-after releases each year. Alongside the new expression are the collection’s five celebrated staples – Eagle Rare 17-Year-Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon, George T. Stagg Kentucky Straight Bourbon, Thomas H. Handy Sazerac Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey, Sazerac 18-Year-Old Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey and William Larue Weller Kentucky Straight Bourbon.

 

Widely regarded as the “Father of Modern Bourbon” and pioneer who helped define bourbon quality standards, Colonel E.H. Taylor is a fitting permanent addition to the Buffalo Trace Antique Collection. After purchasing the O.F.C. Distillery – now Buffalo Trace – in 1869, Taylor modernized operations with innovations such as advanced grain equipment, copper fermentation tanks and a first-of-its-kind steam heating system that remains in use in the distillery’s barrel warehouses today. Beyond modernizing the facilities, Colonel Taylor played a pivotal role in the movement that led to the 1897 passage of the Bottled-in-Bond Act. As one of the first consumer protection law in the United States, this landmark achievement forever altered the standards and practices of whiskey production. 

 

“Colonel Taylor’s signature graced every bottle produced under his watch as a testament to its quality, a tradition we uphold today as a promise of integrity,” says Andrew Duncan, Global Brand Director, Buffalo Trace Distillery. “Created in his honor, every sip of E.H. Taylor Bottled-in-Bond Bourbon offers more than exceptional flavor – it’s a taste of history and reminder of his strict tenets that have safeguarded America’s world-leading whiskey quality standards for nearly 150 years.”

 

Each BTAC expression is presented in a crystal-clear glass bottle that highlights its rich color, while the back label shares its history and tasting notes. Every bottle is accompanied by a letter detailing the whiskey’s intricate production and aging journey, offering authenticity and exclusivity to its owner. These limited-edition bottles are sold individually and available nationwide at a suggested retail price of $149.99 (local taxes and fees may apply). A limited supply will also be available for purchase directly via Legacy de Forge, a new global platform powered by Blockbar for purchasing some of the world’s most coveted bottles (shipping restrictions apply).

 

E.H. Taylor Bottled-In-Bond Bourbon

E.H. Taylor Bottled-In-Bond Bourbon is the first new addition to the Buffalo Trace Antique Collection since Thomas H. Handy joined the portfolio in 2006. Aged 15 years and 4 months in the Distillery’s warehouses and hand-bottled at 100 proof to meet Bottled-In-Bond standards, this whiskey is crafted from Buffalo Trace’s sour mash recipe. The nose opens with warm vanilla, seasoned oak, charred undertones, and a drizzle of maple sweetness. On the palate, balanced sweetness and baking spices mingle with gentle wood notes, while the lingering finish carries oak and vanilla into soft caramel with a hint of cherry. This Bottled-In-Bond offering bears Colonel E.H. Taylor’s signature, just as every bottle under his watch did, continuing a legacy of excellence he championed.

 

Eagle Rare 17-Year-Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon

Bottled at 101 proof in recognition of the original Eagle Rare brand launched in 1975, the Buffalo Trace distillers’ hand-selected their finest barrels to craft this exceptional whiskey. Aged beyond its 17-year statement – maturing 18 years and 4 months – the 2025 Eagle Rare 17-Year-Old Bourbon opens on the nose with dark tobacco and well-worn leather, accented by ripe cherry and a lively peppery edge. The palate reveals caramel sweetness intertwined with supple leather and bright cherry notes, while the smooth, resonant finish carries lasting oak, a touch of vanilla, and a gentle echo of sweetness. Last year’s vintage received a Double Platinum award at the 2025 ASCOT Awards.

 

George T. Stagg Kentucky Straight Bourbon

Named in honor of the whiskey pioneer George T. Stagg, who acquired the historic O.F.C. Distillery from Colonel E.H. Taylor in 1878, this powerhouse bourbon embodies his legacy of boldness and vision. Before taking the helm of what is now Buffalo Trace Distillery, Stagg had built a reputation as a successful whiskey salesman, and today his name graces the boldest expression in the Antique Collection. First introduced in 2002 to meet growing demand for well-aged, barrel-strength bourbon, this year’s George T. Stagg Bourbon was drawn from barrels aged more than 15 years and 4 months. The 2025 release is one of the strongest ever, bottled at 142.8 proof to deliver uncut, unfiltered intensity. Opening with a commanding aroma of deep oak accented by a touch of vanilla, the palate reveals bold vanilla layered with dark tobacco and ripe cherry that leads to a long, earthy finish with notes of tobacco, vanilla, and enduring oak. The 2023 George T. Stagg release earned top honors, including Best in Class and Double Gold medals at the 2024 Whiskies of the World Competition.

 

Sazerac 18-Year-Old Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey

Sazerac 18-Year-Old Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey derives its name from the historic Sazerac House in New Orleans, birthplace of the iconic Sazerac cocktail (widely regarded as America’s first cocktail) in the mid-1800s. Bottled at 18 years and 5 months and 90 proof, this year’s release opens with bright rye spice on the nose, layered with seasoned oak and a subtle herbaceous lift. The palate delivers a mature balance of spice and oak, accented by woody richness and supple leather, leading to a lingering finish of rye spice, warm leather, caraway seed, and enduring oak. Further underscoring its excellence, the 2024 vintage earned a Gold Medal at the 2025 International Spirits Challenge.

 

Thomas H. Handy Sazerac Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey

Thomas H. Handy Sazerac Straight Rye Whiskey takes its name from the New Orleans businessman and owner of the legendary Sazerac Coffee House, who first used rye whiskey in the classic Sazerac cocktail. This uncut, unfiltered whiskey is crafted from barrels aged over six years and bottled at 129.8 proof, up from last year’s 127.2. On the nose of this year’s Handy, lively oak and spice are lifted by bright fruit and a light apple scent. The palate delivers bold spice and oak balanced with gentle fruit notes, leading to a long, warming finish of oak, vanilla, and spice.

 

William Larue Weller Kentucky Straight Bourbon

W.L. Weller, the pioneering distiller who first introduced wheat into the mash bill of Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, inspired William Larue Weller, a wheated bourbon known for its soft, smooth character distinct from traditional rye-based styles. The Buffalo Trace distilling team filled the barrels for this year’s release at 114 proof; after 14 years of aging, the whiskey now rests at 129 proof. Uncut and unfiltered, the nose offers layers of vanilla, maple, and tobacco, while the palate balances sweet vanilla with toasted oak. Its long finish carries steady oak and vanilla alongside a touch of ripe fruit. Last year’s William Larue Weller earned a Gold Medal at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition.

 

2022 DAOU Vineyards Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon Paso Robles

 

As we write this, I can't begin to tell you how giddy we are about the experience we had with this wine.  The 2022 DAOU Vineyards Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon Paso Robles was something we were looking forward to tasting, but there was no way we could have anticipated how incredible this is - and the price is as attactive as the label!

There are so many layers of both aromas and flavors leaping from this bottle.  Stunning dark garnet color to the edge of the glass.  Ripe berry pie, red licorice, sage, rosemary, vanilla extract and dark chocolate fought for center stage on the nose.   We did not decant, but constant swirling brough additional aromas of cherry cola and hints of clove.  

The first taste brought us a huge fruit basket of flavors up front, joined by a grass field covered in morning mist, smoky cedar plank and semi-sweet chocolate bits.  The wine was absolutely mouth coating and provided smiles on our faces as the day was long.  Paso Robles characteristics and fruit quality absolutely shine in this bottle and we would drink this against a high end Napa Cab any day of the week and twice on Sunday.   

There is no doubt that this wine will surface again in our "Top of 2025" list.  It's incredible.  Let us say that again.  It is incredible!

ABV:  158.2%

Paso Robles AVA

Winery:  DAOU Vineyards

Suggested retail price:  $60.00

Drink The Bottles score:  96/100

Town Branch IMPERIUM MMXXV Kentucky Straight Bourbon Release

 

50% Wheated Bourbon Blend |105 Proof

Available in Select Markets Only

LEXINGTON, Ky. (September 30, 2025) - Town Branch Distillery, the 7th member of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail® and the heart of Lexington Brewing & Distilling Co.—is closing out Bourbon Heritage Month with the release of Imperium MMXXV, a high-end limited edition bourbon built on a 50% wheated bourbon foundation, bottled at 105 proof, non-chill-filtered, and offered at an SRP of $119.99.

Town Branch IMPERIUM MMXXV Kentucky Straight Bourbon – 105 Proof Imperium MMXXV marks the second annual release of this highly anticipated series. This year’s edition draws from Town Branch’s exclusive “Imperium Bourbon Stocks,” which include only the finest barrels from three of the distillery’s bourbon mash bills:

• Pot-still Kentucky Bourbon: 72% corn / 15% rye / 13% malted barley

• Column-still o Kentucky Bourbon: 72% corn / 15% rye / 13% malted barley

• Column-still Wheated Bourbon: 70% corn / 22% wheat / 8% malted barley

Each barrel pulled from the rickhouse and arriving at production is evaluated for its highest purpose — base blending, single-barrel program or Imperium stocks. The tasting of these barrels is like a tryout — much like an athlete re-earning a place on the team each season. Only the best of the best makes the cut.

“This year we again set aside our favorite and most unique bourbon stocks, tasting them as many times as needed to ensure each barrel still deserves a place in the Imperium stockpile before blending,” says Dave Bob Gaspar, Head Blender. “After almost a year of tasting thousands of barrels and collecting the rarest ones, we narrowed it down to only 6 barrels for this very special, small batch bourbon.”

The 2025 blend begins with a 50% wheated bourbon base, then marries 50% of Town Branch’s other bourbon stocks to create a distinctive hybrid profile unlike any other bottling from the distillery. Bottled at 105 proof, Imperium MMXXV delivers depth and power while allowing the wheated bourbon shine. This year’s Imperium again crowns Bourbon Heritage Month as a testament to Town Branch’s commitment to exceptional bourbon making. If you’re lucky enough to find a bottle, raise a glass to Bourbon Heritage Month — and to many more to come.

Brand Highlights:

Town Branch IMPERIUM MMXXV Kentucky Straight Bourbon (SRP $119.99/750ml) - A 50/50 blend of our finest bourbon barrels— 50% Wheated Kentucky Straight Bourbon mash bill barrels and 50% Kentucky Straight Bourbon mash bill barrels. Released annually during National Bourbon Heritage Month, this bourbon is marked by the year of release in Roman numerals, with a distinct proof and limited quantity. 

Mash Bill: Multiple Kentucky Straight Bourbon Barrels

 Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey (72C / 15R / 13B)

▪ SN 3963 / Fill Date: February 17, 2017 (Aged 8 years, 6 months)

▪ SN 4308 / Fill Date: February 7, 2017 (Aged 8 years, 6 months)

▪ SN 15647 / Fill Date: April 1, 2019 (Aged 6 years, 5 months)

o Kentucky Straight Wheated Bourbon Whiskey (70C / 22W / 8B)

▪ SN 16368 / Fill Date: March 6, 2020 (Aged 5 years, 6 months)

▪ SN 16391 / Fill Date: March 6, 2020 (Aged 5 years, 6 months)

▪ SN 16394 / Fill Date: March 6, 2020 (Aged 5 years, 6 months)

- Age: MMXXV Release – Barrel Aged 5.5 to 8+ Years

- ABV: 52.5% / 105 Proof

- Estimated Availability: Very Limited Annual Release | 219 cases

- Tasting Notes:

• Appearance: Rich Mahogany
• Aroma: Mature Oak, Honey, Spice, Licorice, Cherry and Ripe Plums
• Palate: Clove, Cinnamon, Baking Spice, Leather, Oak, Dark Cherries, Vanilla and Rich Caramel
• Finish: Lingering notes of Dry Oak, Spice and Honey

2023 Cedar + Salmon Pinot Noir Willamette Valley

 

It's always amazing to drink wines that you aren't familiar with, only to find out that they surprise you in a big way.  There are still a significant group of wine enthusiasts who snub their noses at screw top wines, to which we just laugh or shake our heads.  From a winemaker's or vintner's perspective - no cork taint!  Do we need to say more?

This is the 2023 Cedar + Salmon Pinot Noir Willamette Valley red wine from 3 Badge Beverage.  Don't peek to the end to see the price yet, because you won't believe it considering this is 100% Willamette Valley juice.  

Mulberry color in the glass, this wine left us pleasantly perplexed after some air time in the glass and introduction of oxygen with some nice swirling.  Dried rose petal, plum, and black cherry fragrances appear on the nose, leading an introduction to a myriad of flavors.  We first picked up the traditional Pinot Noir gentle flavors of red raspberry, cherry and dried herbs.  Some additional swirling and tasting brought us the smallest hint of clove, joined by button mushrooms and cola.  

The finish was typical for Pinot Noir, which is not particularly lingering, but the flavors danced for moments, inviting you back to the next sip.  We really enjoyed this wine and it is absolutely solid.

ABV:  14.0%

Willamette Valley AVA

Winery:  Cedar + Salmon Wines

Suggested retail price:  $24.99

Drink The Bottles score:  90/100

2025 Yellowstone 10 Year Bourbon Whiskey Limited Edition

 

Limestone Branch Distillery collaborates with Ross & Squibb Distillery on 2025 release of Yellowstone Limited Edition

10th anniversary expression features a blend of three unique mash bills aged 10 years and bottled at 105 proof

St. Louis - To celebrate a decade of excellence across its award-winning annual Limited Edition collection, Limestone Branch Distillery released its 2025 Yellowstone Limited Edition, a unique blend of straight bourbon whiskeys thoughtfully aged 10 years.  The series debuted in 2015 to honor the finest spirits worth of the Yellowstone Bourbon name.

In the pioneering spirit of Yellowstone Bourbon, Founder and Master Distiller Stephen Beam and the team at Limestone Branch Distillery collaborated with the blending team at Ross & Squibb Distillery - one of the most historic distilleries in America - to create the 10th anniversary release.  For the first time, the combined team chose barrels from the Indiana and Kentucky distilleries to blend for this year's unique and high-quality commemorative expression.

The 2025 release includes three unique mash bills aged 10 years and is bottled at 105 proof (52.5% ABV) in tribute to the debut of Yellowstone Limited Edition in 2015.  An allocation of 10,000 (3-in) cases will be on shelf in September at retail and Limestone Branch Distillery, just in time for Bourbon Heritage Month, for a minimum suggested retail price of $99.99 per 750mL bottle.

"We've done something different with this special annual release every year since 2015," said Beam.  "This year's 10-year anniversary Limited Edition represents my natural progression of experminenting with blending, using three unique mash bills to create a remarkable product.  In partnership with the Ross & Squibb team, we pushed the boundaries of innovation by creating our first blend featuring barrels from the Indiana and Kenutcky distilleries - without compromising on our commitment to quality that has kept the Yellowstone Bourbon brand on shelf for more than 150 years."

The 2025 Yellowstone Limited Edition release features an aroma of vanilla, oak and hints of citrus.  The body includes tastes of rich caramel, vanilla, toffee and hints of stone fruit on the palate, and a lingering finish or of charred oak with notes of honey, cherry and cinnamon.

Presented in a custom-designed embossed Yellowstone Limited Edition bottle, the 2025 anniversary edition features a high-quality natural cork. and a unique black and gold label highlighting the bold 10-year age statement, anniversary details and Beam's signature.

The 2024 Yellowstone Limited Edition release earned gold medals at the 2025 ASCOT Awards and San Francisco World Spirits Competition.

We just received a sample of this bottle and could not wait to dig in.  Yellowstone has consistently produced high-quality, unique and affordable bottles and they remain one of our favorite brands.  

Mahongany in color with wafting aromas of vanilla bean with soft, balsamic and woody undertones.  Island fruits are more dominant with some time out of the bottle and into a Glencairn.  The aromas are pleasant but definitely not the star of the show here.  Creamy vanilla pudding, grilling spices, scorched earth up front.  Mid palate we are introduced to apricot and plum and a long, sweet and semi-spicy finish.  We tasted this again with an introduction of about 4 drops of water and that brought out additional layered flavors of clover honey, cinnamon stick and blackberry.  This is absolutely delicious!

ABV:  52.5% (105 proof)

Distillery:  Limestone Branch Distillery

Suggested retail price:  $99.99

Drink The Bottles score:  94/100

El Mayor Tequila debuts Café Resposado

 

El Mayor Tequila debuts Café Reposado

The new “coffee-kissed” premium tequila will be available nationwide starting in September

ST. LOUIS (Sept. 23, 2025)Fall coffee menus have finally met their match. El Mayor Tequila is expanding their award-winning

tequila portfolio with their latest innovative offering: El Mayor Café Reposado Tequila. Premium

El Mayor Blanco Tequila is rested for three months in bourbon barrels which had previously held coffee

beans - lending a smooth and natural "coffee kissed" flavor that results in El Mayor Café Reposado.

Distilled and produced at Destilladora Gonzalez Lux, Café Reposado will be available in September at a

minimum suggested retail price of $33.99 per 750mL bottle.

"Our Café Reposado is a silky-smooth tequila that delivers lovely natural notes of vanilaa with a subtle

coffee finish in every sip," said Graciela Gonzalez, master distiller at Destiladora Gonzalez Lux.

"With our proprietary barrel seasoning process, our Café Reposado bring forward the natural flavor of the

agave with a subtle hint of coffee on the finish. I enjoy sipping Café Reposado neat, over ice, or in a

coffee-inspired cocktail, like the Espresso Martini."

As with every bottle of El Mayor, Café Reposado Tequlia is made with 100% estate-grown, Blue Weber

agave from the valley area and highlands of Jalisco, Mexico. The finished product is a fair golden color.

The nose offers hints of earthy floral, vanilla and coffee bean, and the finish boasts notes of vanilla,

coffee and cooked agave.

"We're thrilled to introduce El Mayor Tequila Café Reposado in the hear of Espresso Martini season,"

said Kayleight Longo, brand manager for El Mayor. "Tequila-based coffee cocktails are on the rise, and

our Café Reposado makes it simple for consumers to reimagine their customized coffee drinks into

delicious adult concoctions - like a Café Reposado Pumpkin Spice Latte - or come up with something

entirely new. Consumers will be delighted by the smooth versatility and simplicity of this latest release."

El Mayor Café Reposado Tequila is packaged in an embossed opaque brown glass bottle with a

rich-brown colored label and premium cork closure.

El Mayor Café Reposado Tequila marks tha latest addition to the award-winning El Mayor Tequila family

. El Mayor expressions have earned prestigious industry acclaim including a platinum medal and

Consumer's Choice Award at the 2025 SIP Awards, a gold medal at the 2025 ASCOT Awards and

recognition as one of the top 10 tequilas in the world at the 2025 International Wines and Spirits

Competition for El Mayor Reposado.

For recipes and more information about El Mayor and Café Reposado, or to find a retailer, visit

elmayor.com or follow the brand @elmayortequila on Facebook and Instagram.

Jack Daniel's Limited Edition Sweet Mash Tennessee Straigh Whiskey

 

Jack Daniel’s Launches Limited Edition Sweet Mash Tennessee Straight Whiskey 

Jack Daniel’s Distillery Series Selection #15 is a high-proof Sweet Mash Tennessee Whiskey pulled from top-floors of the distillery’s Tract 2 barrelhouses 

Lynchburg, Tennessee (September 22, 2025) – The Jack Daniel Distillery introduces a Sweet Mash Tennessee Straight Whiskey as the latest selection in its Distillery Series line of experimental whiskeys. 

At the beginning of each distilling season, the Jack Daniel Distillery uses a sweet mash process during the cooking of grains. This sweet mash will kickstart production before establishing a setback to support our sour mash process for the remainder of the distilling season. 

Distillery Series Selection #15 is a nod to the annual small run of sweet mashed whiskey, featuring the same grain bill of 80% corn, 12% malted barley, and 8% rye like all Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Whiskeys. After entering new charred white oak barrels in 2016, the expression was aged on the top floors of Track 2 barrelhouses at the Jack Daniel Distillery for almost nine years before being batched and bottled at 117 proof. 

“Our Distillery Series has experimented with every step in the whiskey making process from grain bill to barreling, and this release showcases yet another lever that we can pull and tweak here at the Jack Daniel Distillery,” said Chris Fletcher, Jack Daniel’s Master Distiller. “What excites me about this release is the complexity and richness that has emerged from a little extra time in the right places in our barrelhouses.” 

The sweet mash process along with the barrel age and location combine for a high-proof Tennessee Whiskey featuring rich butterscotch notes and undertones of pecan, berry and caramel. 

Selected by Whiskey Taster and Quality Control Manager Kathy Thurmond, Jack Daniel’s Distillery Series Sweet Mash Tennessee Straight Whiskey is bottled at 117 proof (58.5% abv) in 375ml bottles. It will be available exclusively in Tennessee and at the White Rabbit Bottle Shop at the Jack Daniel Distillery beginning this month, with a suggested retail price of $44.99.

Jack Daniel's Vanilla Coke Canned Cocktail

Jack Daniel’s & Coca-Cola Vanilla Canned Cocktail Returns as Limited-Edition 4-Pack 

The perfect twist on a classic favorite delivering a smooth and crisp taste with hints of vanilla is now available for a limited time 

Lynchburg, Tennessee (September 15, 2025) - Jack Daniel's and Coca-Cola are expanding their popular Jack & Coke ready-to-drink lineup with the launch of Jack Daniel's and Coca-Cola Vanilla. Available nationwide, this limited-time release comes in a convenient 4-pack of 12 ounce cans, delivering a flavorful twist on the classic Jack & Coke, just in time for tailgaing season.

"Coca-Cola Vanilla brings forward the classic vanilla notes in Jack Daniel's Tennessee Whiskey to create a unique, layered flavor that's perfect for the season," said Mary Beth O'Mara, Jack Daniel's RTD Brand Director. "Whether at fall gatherings or gameday watch parties, we hope our friends will reach for Jack & Coke Vanilla to make every moment more memorable."

Jack Daniel's & Coca-Cola Vanilla was first introduced in the Jack & Coke Variety Pack in March 2025 and quickly became a standout among consumers looking for a premium twist on a familiar favorite. At 7% ABV in its standalone package, the canned cocktail perfectly blends the bold character of Jack Daniel's Tennessee Whiskey with the creamy flavor of Coca-Cola Vanilla for a balanced sip, ready to enjoy with no mixing required.

Jack Daniel's & Coca-Cola Vanilla is available now across the U.S. for a limited time, sold in 4-packs of 12 ounce cans at a suggested retail price of $12.99

 

Pappy Van Winkle 2025 Bourbon Collection

 

FRANKFORT, Ky (September 10, 2025) – Old Rip Van Winkle Distillery and Buffalo Trace Distillery proudly announce the 2025 release of the coveted Van Winkle Whiskey Collection. Returning to shelves this September, the annual offering is a centerpiece for collectors and connoisseurs alike, showcasing the family’s renowned wheated bourbon and rye whiskey recipes across six celebrated expressions: Old Rip Van Winkle Handmade Bourbon 10 Year Old, Van Winkle Special Reserve 12 Year Old, Van Winkle Family Reserve Rye 13 Year Old, Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve 15 Year Old, Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve 20 Year Old, and Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve 23 Year Old. Additionally, in honor of this year’s release, one rare bottle of Old Rip Van Winkle 25 Year Old - recently rediscovered at the Distillery - will be included in Legacy de Forge’s National Bourbon Heritage Month Auction starting September 10, 2025.

 

The annual release continues to embody what makes this family of whiskeys a hallmark in the American Whiskey category: exceptional taste, legendary craftsmanship, and a legacy that resonates across generations.

 

“As always, each release represents years of quiet work, careful aging and a deep respect for the legacy we carry forward,” said Preston Van Winkle, 4^th Generation, Old Rip Van Winkle Distillery. “We’ve taken great care to ensure the quality of this year’s release lives up to the Van Winkle name. We’re proud to share this whiskey with those who appreciate the craft, patience and tradition that go into every bottle.”

 

In celebration of the 2025 Van Winkle Collection release and National Bourbon Heritage Month, Legacy de Forge, a new global platform to improve access to Sazerac’s most coveted spirits, will present an exclusive series of rare whiskey auctions this September. Leading the offerings is Old Rip Van Winkle 25 Year Old, the oldest and rarest expression ever released under the iconic name, paired with a private tasting with Julian Van Winkle – and a story as rare as the whiskey inside.

 

Originally filled into its hand-engraved Glencairn crystal decanter in 2017, Bottle #706 was safely tucked away at Buffalo Trace Distillery, untouched for nearly a decade. As one of the final bottles from the original 710 produced, it emerges as more than a rare collectible: a once-hidden treasure made available for enjoyment by today’s enthusiasts. Beyond its rarity, this archival bottle carries a provenance and a story that elevate it into the realm of legend, offering the opportunity to experience a true piece of bourbon history.

 

Legacy de Forge’s September Bourbon Heritage Month Auction will feature eight curated lots in total, offering enthusiasts direct access to distinguished bottlings including O.F.C 2006, the newly-released Colonel E.H. Taylor Distiller’s Council and a Stagg Single Barrel pick. Bidding opens at 10:00 a.m. ET on September 10, 2025, and will close at 10:00 a.m. ET on September 24, 2025. For more information, please visit https://legacydeforge.com/release/bourbon-heritage-month-2025.

 

The 2025 Van Winkle Collection will be made available to stores, bars and restaurants across the United States in limited quantities and at varying retail prices. The suggested retail prices for the limited-edition Van Winkle collection bottles are as follows (local taxes apply):

 

·       Old Rip Van Winkle Handmade Bourbon 10 Year Old - $149.99

This season’s 10YR ORVW bourbon balances classic sweetness with smoky sophistication. On the nose, aromas of vanilla, caramel, pecan, and seasoned oak meet warm tobacco and charred wood. The palate is smooth and rich with wheat, cherry, bold oak, and a hint of spice, leading to a long, smoky finish layered with oak, dark vanilla, and lingering warmth.

 

·       Van Winkle Special Reserve Bourbon 12 Year Old - $169.99

This unique batch brings a bolder, woodier edge to a bourbon known for its bright fruit and delicate spice. On the nose, aromas of oak, dried mango, cocoa, and spiced peach mingle with cherry and vanilla. The palate offers honey, tobacco, and dark fruit, evolving into stone fruit and cocoa. A dry, balanced finish lingers with oak, cherry, and gentle spice.

·       Van Winkle Family Reserve Rye 13 Year Old - $229.99

This seasonal batch builds on the soft, spiced elegance of the original with a richer, fruit-forward complexity. The nose welcomes you with roasted chestnut, vanilla, and subtle spice that is deepened by cherry, stone fruit, and warming oak. On the palate, layers of cocoa, white pepper, and vanilla meet a bold infusion of cherry and ripe stone fruits, balanced by oak and cedar. A long, warm finish lingers with caramel, spice, and dry oak.

·       Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve Bourbon 15 Year Old - $239.99

This limited batch amplifies the 15YO signature sweetness with added depth. The nose is captivating with aromas of brown sugar, caramel corn, and vanilla mingle with wood and a hint of cherry. The palate is rich with leather, oak, and dark fruit, smoothed by brown sugar and lifted by cherry brightness. A long, dry finish leaves lingering spice, oak tannins, and a warming touch of fruit and sugar.

·       Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve Bourbon 20 Year Old- $359.99

This special batch brings depth to a bourbon known for its intensity and elegance. The nose is vibrant with citrus zest and dried fruit joined by lush notes of plum and cherry. On the palate, smooth citrus and vanilla meet juicy stone fruit and hints of sherry, creating a beautifully balanced sip. The finish is long, elegant, and fruit-kissed leaving behind whispers of plum, cherry, and warm spice.

·       Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve Bourbon 23 Year Old - $499.99

This batch turns up the intensity while staying true to the heart of the Pappy Van Winkle. The nose is bold and inviting leading with rich caramel and cream, joined by oak, leather, and a hit of ripe cherry. The palate is full and flavorful, with vanilla, honey, and maple leading the way, with a burst of cherry and a warming heat. The finish is long, oaky, and fruit-laced leaving behind notes of spice, sweetness, and the satisfying heat of a stronger pour.

 

“Those who follow this release year after year know it’s not just about whiskey, but about what it represents,” said Julian P. Van Winkle III, President, Old Rip Van Winkle Distillery. “This whiskey collection is a reflection of our family’s legacy and a tribute to the generations who came before us. The legacy, combined with anticipation, the stories shared over a pour, the appreciation for extended aging – that is what makes each release so special.”

 

The Van Winkle family reminds fans that neither they nor Buffalo Trace Distillery control the prices individual retailers charge for the expressions. The family also strongly recommends those interested in the Van Winkle Collection to purchase through a licensed retailer. Whiskey enthusiasts increase their risks of alcohol scams by purchasing from secondary markets and online sellers including Craigslist, eBay, and social media groups. Additionally, many alcohol scams take place overseas. In some cases, consuming alcohol that is not purchased from a licensed retailer can lead to bodily harm and even casualties.